Thanks to all of you who took the time to review my story!
Chapter betaed by Miette :)

AN: To answer a guest's review concerning Horcruxes and whether Severus is making assumptions on the possibility of Horcruxes being reabsorbed by their creator, I invite you to go back to the chapter Growing up from the third Arc. As for Severus being unable to take the Prince Oath, you may go back to chapter 8 part 2 from the third Arc, as well as read this chapter :)

Severus was nervous. He was having lunch with his Grandparents at Prince Manor. He had been restless the entire morning, unable to focus on anything else than the coming meal. Even potions had not been able to retain his attention. He had fussed over which clothes to wear, then spent far too much time on his hair making sure that his usual braid was perfect. He had even entertained the idea of adding a hair clip before regaining his sense. He did not need to impress them. They were the ones who wanted him to come.
Yet, now it was time to go and he felt foolish for being even more anxious than before his first Death Eaters meeting. Dhaal wickered and gently rubbed his head against Severus' torso before Sensing he was leaving now and disappeared.
Severus closed his eyes, berating himself for needing his Familiar to push him through going. Reaching for magic flows, he followed the Thestral. They arrived in front of a private paved road which led to the manor. Severus Sensed the powerful wards which prevented intruders. He gently pushed against them, not surprised when they welcomed him. Crossing through, Dhaal already ahead of him, he decided against using flow travel and walked briskly along the road, observing their surroundings. The road went through fields and woods, the manor shaping up far in front of Severus.
Dhaal urged him to go faster. Laughing softly to himself, Severus reached for a magic flow, using it to go as fast as Dhaal's running pace, feet sliding on the flows above the ground. He stopped as he spied his Grandfather speaking with another man at the bottom of the manor stairs entrance. Unwilling to show himself to them yet, he oriented himself to walk around them while being hidden by the manor, using his goblin training to be silent and unseen.

"Thank you once more Augustus, for everything."

"You know I only ask that you work hard, succeed in your Apprenticeship and take care of your little brother," answered his Grandfather's voice.

Severus felt himself grow cold. Was this Cornby, his Grandfather's past mentoree?

"I do. I just feel you've done so much for us while we've only been trouble for you."

"You were no trouble. Circumstances were."

"I just... I feel I do not tell you enough how much I care for you and Madeline." He sighed. "I'm so selfish."

"Jules, you are not—"

"I am glad you were not the one who died that day. Even though Lord Malfoy was Lucius' father. Even though Severus was his mentoree. Lucius' son will never know his grandfather yet I am happy because you are here. You still feel guilty because you think your best friend died in your place and I only think of myself and how happy I am for your presence in my life."

There was a long silence. Severus made out the rustle of clothes and supposed they were hugging. He could hear his heart pounding in his ears, blood rushing through his body. He was breathing too fast. Abraxas had died instead of his Grandfather. Only one year ago, Severus would have gladly exchanged their fates, without either thoughts or remorse. Today...
Dhaal gently tugged at their Bond, warmth and admonition flooding through Severus. His Familiar was the only reason Severus had forgiven his Grandfather. Severus had no idea how he would have coped without Dhaal's presence and love. Without him to challenge Severus' certitude. One day, as Severus was ranting against his Grandfather and how he wished he had been the one to die, Dhaal had asked him what he would think if Lucius had been in Augustus' place, and Severus in Abraxas'. It had brought a completely different perspective to Severus, as he knew he would rather Lucius live than he.

However, hearing this conversation reopened barely healed wounds, leaving Severus agitated and upset. It did not presage well for his first shared meal with his Grandparents. He needed to calm himself. He needed a place to practice Taichichuan. Dhaal was well ahead of him, Sensing to come and join him. Using their Bond, Severus flow-travelled to reach the Thestral. They stood in what Severus supposed was the Princes' garden, though where Malfoy manor's was all flowers and careful French-Style grooming, this one was a vast grassland surrounded by an exotic looking forest.
As Dhaal went to explore and roll himself in the grass, Severus settled in position. Wuji. Breath. Release. Breath. Begin. He lost himself in the movement, Senses wide open. The magic flows felt playful and he followed them as he moved with the form. He was not surprised when his Grandmother joined him. He had met her twice yet he would recognize her presence anywhere. He had known where she was as soon as she had put her foot on the grounds outside Prince manor. He was surprised when she joined him into the form, fluid and precise beside him. They moved together and it felt as comfortable as his sessions with his goblin family.
He turned toward her as they finished, surprised once more when she bowed to him the Learner way.

"I have practised more years than you have, yet I don't think I will ever achieve the ease you possess," She was smiling, watching him with the same affection and pride he remembered.

They had only met twice, but he felt like he had known her his whole life.

"You did not write to me."

He was surprised at the hurt in his voice. He realised he had wanted to read her letters, wanted more than a few words at the end of his Grandfather's.

"I did not," she agreed, looking at him squarely in the eyes, gentle but firm. "It would only have hindered the tenuous bond between your Grandfather and yourself."

"I had enough time to write to both of you."

"This is not what I meant," she chided gently. "We have a connection, you and I. It happens in families. Your cousin is closer to your Grandfather than myself. But we are close. You were far away from him. I think you almost hated him at a time."

She lifted her chin, daring him to disagree. He could not.

"It hurt him. He was afraid he would lose you. Your goblin Apprenticeship gave you one common point on which you could build a truce. I gave you the time to choose the relationship you wanted with him."

He understood her reasoning but he did not like it.
She laughed.

"As I told you before, you remind me very much of my Father. He apprenticed with the Goblins too, but with clan Rén. He was very curious and dabbled in many fields and projects. I think you would appreciate his research diaries. When you have settled down," she added, a mischievous spark in her eyes at Severus' eager look.
"His last project was ambitious. I remember it because Eileen was the one to inspire it. Like every Prince, she learnt of the Dark Arts rules the year before beginning Hogwarts. The story of Vladinka, the dark Wizard who used Crucio on chakra points and drove his victims to madness, gave her nightmares for days until Father told her he would work on a cure for them."

This sounded like a very interesting challenge. He could not wait to get access to those diaries.

"Do not worry Severus. You are the only one in our family interested in his research. I will have them delivered to your house. In time."

"Thank you," he said gratefully, hesitating before taking her hand and squeezing it briefly. She brought his hand to her lips, pressing a brief kiss on it before letting go.

"I'm glad to be able to spoil you now. This is the role of grandmothers and I am very late."

Severus did not know what to answer. He began walking slowly, his Grandmother easily falling into step behind.

"What do you think of Lord Voldemort?" he asked abruptly.

Her step did not falter, nor did she show any surprise at the subject change.

"He's a ruthless charmer. We had Abraxas, Eleanor, Philip and him over for dinner several times a year when he first came back to Britain. It was the beginning of plan Slytherin you know," she said with a smile. "Almost nine years ago. He showed up just when Abraxas was getting fed up with the ministry. To observe Tom, Eleanor, Abraxas and Augustus debate on the best ways of bringing Slytherin rules to the entire wizarding world was fascinating and exciting. But Tom has not been here for more than a year now."

There was no judgement in her voice, but he felt she had been hurt by Lord Voldemort's changes. Tom. The name was oddly common for the man, no doubt inherited from the muggle side of his family. Severus doubted it was common knowledge. It did not match their Leader's persona.

"Why don't you belong to the group?" he asked.

She shook her head at him.
"Politics are Augustus' hobby. I have far enough on my plate with my family and my research. And Philip enjoys rare plants as much as I do, for all that Eleanor is the one with the Head of House Greengrass title."

She laughed suddenly as her gaze went toward the forest. He turned and could not help but join her. Dhaal was running toward them, chased by a big red cat. Severus knew he could have gone faster, but he seemed content to tease the cat by dangling his tail only centimetres from her.

"Kea found Dhaal," said his Grandmother as she composed herself.

"They seem to be having fun."

She nodded.
"I have not seen her run that fast for years."

Suddenly, the cat grew to become a beautiful and terrifying Nundu, now bigger than Dhaal. Severus' Familiar retaliated by increasing his own size to match Kea´s and abruptly stopped to face her.
Severus held his breath as the two Familiars obviously assessed each other. He felt a light foreign brush through his Bond with Dhaal before his Familiar abruptly walled his end of the Bond and shrieked a warning to the Nundu. She answered with a loud purr, then slowly and gently rubbed her head against his. Dhaal watched her suspiciously before reciprocating. Then he shrunk back to his normal size, coming up to her shoulder and unwalled the bond.
Severus wondered how she had managed to access it when it was protected by both his and Dhaal's Sensing Shields. He looked behind him as he Sensed his Grandfather's presence. The man was walking leisurely, a huge smile on his usually severe face.

"Kea is overjoyed with your visit," said Severus' Grandfather as he reached them, putting his arm around Madeline's shoulders. "She approves of Dhaal."

"What about me?" asked Severus, hiding his trepidation. He wanted the Nundu to like him.

"We won't know until you take the brushing test," answered his Grandfather deadpan.

"The brushing test?" echoed Severus.

Madeline nodded gravely, but her eyes were filled with mirth.
"All Princes have attempted at least once to outlast Kea's love for brushing and combing."

His Grandparents burst into laughter at Severus' horrified expression, soon joined with amused snorts and chuffing from the two Familiars. Kea came to sniff him, leaving hairs all over him until Dhaal took pity and interposed himself between them. The Nundu growled low before changing back to her cat form and leaping into Severus' Grandfather's arms. They walked to the manor happily, Severus' Grandparents regaling him with the Nundu's past mischief.
Lunch was a light and joyous affair, Severus ignoring the pang of sadness and anger at the thought that he could have enjoyed this a long time ago if either Mother or his Grandparents had been less prideful.
He was relieved when he Sensed no wrongness on his Grandmother, and puzzled when there was none to find on his Grandfather. Malfoy manor seemed to attenuate Lucius' wrongness but it did not make it disappear completely. Was it because of the Mark? Or were Prince manor wards different? Or was it Kea's doing? He really needed someone to study, and he could not wait and test the waters much longer.
Lunch concluded on chocolate macarons and coffee, to Severus and Dhaal's delight. As Severus wondered how to ask his Grandfather to help him with his Horcruxes problem, his Grandmother spoke.

"I will leave you two men to discuss House business. Severus, your Grandfather has a proposal for you."

He was intrigued. It was the perfect opportunity to ask for his Grandfather's help.

"Please join me in the Greenhouses when you are done, we possess rare plants you deserve to grow in your own garden, I will give you cuttings."

She gave a peck to her husband and left the room, humming to herself a song Severus had never heard.
Augustus led Severus to his study, stating they would be more comfortable. They each settled in wide leather armchairs, a glass of hard spirits in hand.

"Calvados. A gift from Abraxas. A French muggle brew he bought near Dryhtenhold. I only drank it with him," Augustus explained wistfully.

Evan and Jonathan's etiquette sessions had not covered the proper way to consume alcohol, though they had shown Severus the numerous existing forks and knives which only existed so nobles would recognize each other during meals. Until his Apprenticeship, Severus had only consumed celebratory champagne, one glass each time. He had not dared try out drinking during his goblin Apprenticeship as he could not afford to have his intellectual capacities diminished—and he had seen first hand how alcohol rendered people stupid.
Severus took a small, cautious sip. It burnt his throat pleasantly, leaving a sweet taste on his tongue and warmth in his belly.

"One small glass after meals to share the warmth with close friends and family," said his Grandfather softly, eyes lost in memories.

Severus imagined all too well his Mentor saying those words to his Grandfather, the two men sitting in this same room and sharing a comfortable camaraderie. He hoped to share similar moments with Lucius, Jonathan and Evan. In another lifetime, he might have slipped into this study to climb on his Grandfather's knees under Abraxas' amused gaze.
Severus shook his head, breaking the spell which had fallen on the room. His Grandfather cleared his throat before looking at him with a regretful smile.

"I want to talk to you about your Oath to the Prince House."

Severus swallowed thickly. He had wondered when the subject would come up. Time and efforts from his Grandfather had greatly improved their relationship, but as much as he now respected and cared for the older man, he could not imagine swearing his allegiance to the House of Prince. He felt as much Goblin as Wizard these days.

"You mean my non-Oath."

"Indeed." His Grandfather looked at him frankly. "We both know you cannot swear an Oath to my House. You know I swore you in when you were a baby. I had to change the Oath during your Apprenticeship to adjust with your growth. I had hoped once… but it will never be now. I have stretched the Oath as much as I can, but now I have to release you."

Severus nodded.
"What will it mean for me? And for our relationship?"

His Grandfather smiled gently.
"I am not disowning you. You remain the man I am proud to call my Grandson."

Severus let go of the breath he was holding, feeling himself relax.

"You have a choice to make. You are not unique in not being able to swear an Oath to your birth House. While it is not common, it happened before, usually when a House had too many members. A few others left their birth House because its motto was in complete opposition with their personality and as such, they were unable to swear an Oath to abide by it. In both cases, they had three possibilities. One, to become House-less, which can be quite disorientating. To belong to a House means you can rely on the House Magic to bolster you, even if you do not realise it, especially in life or death situations. I obviously do not recommend this option."

Obviously.

"Muggleborns are House-less," remarked Severus, looking at his Grandfather inquiringly.

The older man sighed.

"I know. It is one of our greatest failures. The Mentorship Abraxas proposed was supposed to be the first step in finding Houses for Muggleborns. We wanted the Mentor to swear his Mentoree in his House for the duration of the Mentorship, until his majority. By that time, the Muggleborn would be sufficiently aware of our culture, traditions, of what having a House entails in terms of rights and duties to make his choice. The one you are going to make," said Augustus, as if Severus had forgotten.

"Why did you remove it from the Mentorship?" asked Severus.

"You know the Ministry did not approve of the Mentorship. They were looking for reasons to forbid it. We feared swearing the Muggleborns into Houses would be their excuse to do so. That they would twist it into Pureblood using innocent ignorant children to bolster their numbers."

"You think we will be able to, one day."

"I do. If we win the elections," answered his Grandfather. "Anyway. You have two other options. Or three, if we consider the last option can be done two different ways. Your next option is to find a House which suits you and be sworn into it. It was a lot more common when I was young, to look for a House with a motto corresponding to yourself."

"But you cannot just choose a motto," argued Severus with a frown. "People matter too."

"I agree. Usually, they chose one of their friends' Houses where they had found their place during their teenage-hood."

"Like Black and Potter."

"Exactly," agreed Augustus. "Though this was an extreme case. Sadly, even the older Houses sometimes forget our traditions because of supposed sleights to their honour. Fortunately, most did not cut off their relationships with their birth House. Mottos represent a way of life. You can decide it does not fit you while loving those who follow it."

Augustus nodded slowly to himself.
"Sirius Black was extremely fortunate that the Potter's motto suited him. Without the adoption, he may have become mad, or dead. Rejecting the heir of a House so brutally and without preparation is… I don't know what Cygnus was thinking."

Severus could not bring himself to pity the Maraudeur. He distantly wondered if the Goblins had offered Potter-bis mind healing sessions. And if he had accepted.

"What is the Potters' motto?" asked Severus curiously.

He had no idea what such a gryffindor House could have chosen as its way of life. Mottos were not secrets, you could consult them in Gringotts register of Houses, but Severus realised they had seldom been mentioned at Hogwarts.

"Nothing that will surprise you," answered Augustus with a smile in his eyes. "It's Magicae ab audacia."

Seriously?

"Magic comes from bravery?" translated Severus, looking at his Grandfather for confirmation.

"It was very popular during the tenth century wars," confirmed the older man. "Now, I believe we may have strayed from our topic. As I was saying, your second option is to find another House with a motto that suits you."

"You know the only House I would consider is Lucius," said Severus slowly.

"I know. Abraxas wanted to adopt you but I refused," stated his Grandfather. "Despite everything you went through, you are a Prince. I do not think you would have benefited from the adoption, and you did not need it to love him like a father."

Severus felt a rush of anger but pushed it down. He knew now his Grandfather had always had his best interest in mind, even if he had often been misguided in what Severus needed. He needed to understand his Grandfather's point of view.

"As much as I loved Abraxas, as much as I love and cherish Lucius and his family, they embody their House motto and I am persuaded it does not suit you. I was afraid it would constrain your path. The Malfoys' motto is Survivre, toujours, meaning survival, always."

Survival. Severus knew about it. Yet...

"Did the Malfoys ever possess Familiars?" he asked.

"I cannot say never, but not to my knowledge," answered his Grandfather. "The risks far outweigh the gains, as Abraxas once told me." He paused, looking relieved. "You understand then."

"I do," nodded Severus. "It does not mean I completely approve. I will need time to think about all this."

"Fair enough," agreed Augustus.

There was an uneasy silence as their last exchange reminded them that their relationship was still new and fragile. Once again, Severus repressed a surge of frustration at what could have been. He did not even know the Princes' motto.

His Grandfather smiled sadly when Severus said as much.
"I often forget how much you do not know about our House. Our motto is Loyauté et devoir, meaning Loyalty and duty. Not what you expected I suppose," said the man with a raised eyebrow.

"Not the most slytherin traits," agreed Severus.

"Our House is usually divided between Hufflepuff and Slytherin," replied Augustus amused. "Contrary to what Dumbledore's propaganda is making of us, Slytherins are not traitors ready to kill any friends to achieve their goals. Traitors can be found in every House given the right circumstances and incentives. But I digress, we were talking of Heads of House. In addition to their House Oath, all Heads swear the Oath to do their best for their people and for the land, the land meaning Britain. As you imagine, it leaves wide margins for interpretation and subjectivity, but it means each Head of House believes each of his decisions is the best for the House and its members."

"This is a heavy responsibility," said Severus thoughtfully. "More than most know."

His lessons with Jonathan and Evan on the subject had been limited to the fact Heads of House's words were almost law to their members, and that they were more powerful than most.

His Grandfather inclined his head.
"Indeed. Note that the Oath does not prevent war between us, as long as each side is convinced they are the best for the land. In exchange for our Oath, the land lends Magic more easily, especially to build wards around homes, or to protect House members."

"If all Heads of House are sworn to do the best for the land, what additional Oaths have Noble Houses sworn?" asked Severus curiously.

"When they founded the Wizengamot, the Noble Houses Head swore an Oath to protect the land and its people against foreign enemies. For example, during the muggle World War II, they were called to add protections to the queen's palace as well as to the war Headquarters. They play an important part in our borders surveillance and protection. When it was decided to allow other Houses in the Wizengamot through elections, the Noble Houses decided the Elected Houses would swear the same Oath for the time of their mandate."

Severus was impressed.
"We should explain this to the Muggleborns. Merlin, why is it not taught at Hogwarts?"

"It should be, during your History classes."

"This was not in any history books I read. As a matter of fact, last year, I spoke with a guy of my age born to two Muggleborns. He complained that he did not know as much about the wizarding world and rules as other students born in Noble Houses."

His Grandfather sighed.
"I will ask the board to look into this. I know some of this knowledge is considered private and to be transmitted from Head of House to Head of House, but a general knowledge should be given to all our people, if only so they understand why some of our rules exist."

The older man paused to drink from his glass before speaking again.
"Now, any House, even Noble Houses, can break their Oath and leave the Wizengamot if they find themselves unable to fulfil their Oath to the land and the people, but they will be banned from the Wizengamot for two centuries."

"I understand better why Jonathan was busy after his father's death."

"Yes, even when you have been groomed since childhood, nothing can prepare you to become a Head of House and shoulder all your responsibilities. You realize Jonathan's House possesses less members than Lucius'."

Severus nodded, unable to truly understand what their role entailed for his Brother and his friend.

"This brings me to your last option. Creating your own House."

Severus looked up at his Grandfather in shock. He must have misunderstood.

"Listen to me before thinking I am senile," said the older man, obviously amused but serious. "Creating a House is not to be done lightly as becoming Head of House means shouldering great responsibilities, even when you are only a House of one. You must also meet several requirements to be able to create your own House. I believe you meet those requirements and I believe you would flourish under those responsibilities."

"You have a lot of faith in me," answered Severus.

This was not how he had imagined this conversation. He felt both elated and angry at his Grandfather for telling him he could be more, that he could take more on his plate.

"As I told you before, your situation is not unique. The creation of a new House has often been the answer for those who could not swear to their birth House," stated Augustus calmly. "There are two ways to create a House. First, you can be sponsored by an existing House, usually the one of your birth, and become their vassal."

Severus grimaced at the thought. Being a vassal implied duties on both sides, but if he was to create his own House, he would rather answer to no one.

"Creating a House is only possible if you are powerful on your own or if you have the backing of someone powerful, hence the need for sponsoring. However, I believe you could create your House on your own. You have achieved impressive Mastery ranks in four fields. You have a Familiar. You are allied to a goblin clan. A House Elf has adopted you. You could easily ally with several important Houses, the Malfoy and the Prince for example," said his Grandfather with a small smile. "This is as much as some older Houses can claim."

Severus nodded thoughtfully, turning his Grandfather's words in his head.

"You would be willing to become my ally?"asked Severus.

He was refusing to swear an Oath to the man and he was still supporting him. Severus had trouble accepting it was real.

"Of course!" exclaimed his Grandfather. "Creating your House on your own is a great achievement to be proud of. And you are my Grandson, what better way to strengthen our relationship than become allies?"

Severus nodded again. He would have to be careful of the wordings of the contract though. Augustus would not always be the Head of the House of Prince.

"Once more, it makes it harder on Muggleborns," remarked Severus.

His Grandfather nodded.

"Especially with our current system, when they are ignorant of many rules and requirements. When they do not know they must nurture political relationships and alliance with magic beings. When most of them are afraid or disgusted of creatures which are seen as evil in the muggle world."

"How do you announce the creation of your House?" asked Severus, changing the subject.

"Gringotts publish a statement. They are the ones who witness the creation of every new House," answered his Grandfather.

"How does it impact existing contracts and Oaths?"

"It does not, though it is considered rude not to restate your Oaths and contracts in the month following the creation of your House. It would be the same if you were sworn in another existing House."

Severus remained silent for several minutes, thinking over all he had learnt and how it would impact his life.

"You really think I should do it," he finally said.

"I do. Being a Head of House offers you protections and powers which could be useful in these troubled times," answered his Grandfather.

"Even if I remain the only one of my House until my death?"

"You never know what life will be made of. I certainly hope that you will experience the joy of having children, but even if you don't, you might adopt other members along the way."

"I have trouble imagining a House of Snape," sighed Severus.

To give his father's name so much glory left a sour taste in his mouth.

"Snape will not be your House name," replied his Grandfather.

"It won't?"

"Your House name is very important, as much as your motto will be, as they will define it for the rest of its existence. To give the name power and to link it to you, its first Head, the name usually is an anagram of your complete name. In your case, you will also add your birth House name. Meaning your House name must be an anagram of Severus Tobias Prince Snape," explained his Grandfather.

"Using an anagram will give more intent to Magic when I create my House," thought Severus out loud.

"Yes. It is even better when you can make a sentence with your anagram. Like I am, I will be, I become. Magic accepts your House more easily. In your case, you can begin with I be."

"You already thought this through," said Severus suspiciously.

His Grandfather scoffed.
"Of course. I needed to present my case in the best light."

"I need time to think about it," finally said Severus.

"But you want to do it," replied his Grandfather knowingly.

"Yes. Your arguments are convincing. But I do not want to take my decision in the heat of the moment."

"I expected no less of you," said his Grandfather, pride shining in his eyes. "Why don't you make an appointment with Gringotts in a month's time? Even if you decide against creating your House, I am certain you have enough business with them that it will be useful."

Severus nodded.
"I believe I will."

"The creation of your House must be done in your current home. It will become the equivalent of Prince manor or Malfoy manor to your House. It is possible to change the main home of the House but you must wait at least five years to do so, to give Magic time to really anchor your House presence. Will you remain in Spinner ends?" asked his Grandfather curious.

"I do not know. Another choice to make," answered Severus with a wry smile.

"Alright. Do you want to try out names to see which one might be suitable for your House?"

"Yes please," Severus paused, then looked at his Grandfather with a smile. "I am grateful for your support."

His Grandfather smiled back.
"I am grateful for you accepting it."

The older man stood up to his desk, gesturing for Severus to take place beside him as he took out quills and parchment sheets.

"The last time I helped choose a name was for Lord Voldemort," said Augustus wistfully. "He did not create his own House, as you imagine, he was quite content with House Slytherin. But he wanted a new name as a symbol for his new beginnings. A new name to make it easier for the other Slytherins to follow him. Abraxas, Eleanor and I helped Tom choose his new name, the best one for our cause. It feels like a lifetime ago."

"Do you think he has changed?" asked Severus.

"We all have. But yes, these past years… I think Abraxas' death hit him as hard as us."

The Lord could have made more Horcruxes at that time because Severus' Mentor death had scared him. It could explain why the Defenders line had changed lately as he became twisted.

"Do you think it could have led Lord Voldemort to create Horcruxes?" asked Severus conversationally, as if his heart was not beating madly.

Augustus froze beside him. Severus watched him as he processed the words and thought them over.

"Horcrux. No, Horcruxes. You think… Are you certain?" asked his Grandfather as he turned toward Severus.

"Ninety per cent sure," he answered quietly.

"Merlin. Horcruxes. Why… The Marks?" asked Augustus sharply.

"I need to study one up close, but they are part of the problem. I think," said Severus honestly. "I need your help."

"You have it," answered his Grandfather immediately. Only the increased speed of his breathing showed the man was shaken.

"Who else knows?"

"No one I am aware of. Regulus suspects something is amiss. I think I can convince him to help too. Maybe Jonathan. He seems less… enthralled with the group's latest actions."

"Indeed. Mister Wilkes is not fond of young Mulciber and his followers. Except for Mister Rosier of course."

"I wish I could tell Evan about this too but..." trailed off Severus.

"You cannot take this risk Severus," agreed his Grandfather. "You cannot tell Lucius either," he added seriously.

"Even if my Brother was suspicious of Lord Voldemort, I would never endanger Narcissa and Draco by asking for his help," replied Severus.

The older man sighed.
"If you do not mind, I think I will join Kea for a time. We will look over potential names later."

Severus nodded. The man was more frazzled than he let on.
"I understand. It took me some time to accept it too."

"You Sensed it, at that first meeting. This was the reason for Dhaal's protectiveness."

Severus nodded wordlessly. His Grandfather put his hand on his shoulder and squeezed gently.

"Thank you for trusting me."

They went out of the office to be immediately greeted by Kea and Dhaal. The Nundu in her cat form jumped into Augustus's arms, purring loudly.

"I will be in the veranda to enjoy the last rays of sun. Madeline is waiting for you in the Greenhouses. Dhaal already knows where they are, but I believe you can Sense where she is."

"I can Sense her as well as you," confirmed Severus.

His Grandfather gave him a small smile before walking away, upright but with feet which looked to weigh thousands tons.

Severus spent the next two hours in the Greenhouses with his Grandmother. Madeline was overjoyed to show off her treasures, herbs and plants generations of Princes had brought back from many travels. Severus was even more interested by her experiments, crossing various species to create new hybrids with different properties. His Grandmother also had an entire covert garden full of flowers with exotic scent. Severus asked her for a few of those in addition to the other cuttings, thinking Tuei might enjoy them.
They joined his Grandfather in the veranda for tea, finding him with both Kea and Dhaal curled up in his arms. Madeline kept the conversation light, telling Severus of the latest gossip as well as the researchers she was following. Severus excused himself when Dhaal ate the last lemon sablé, promising his Grandparents to come back for another lunch in two weeks. Augustus seemed to have gained ten years, and Severus felt guilty for burdening him with the Horcruxes problem. Yet, he knew he could not succeed alone.

Severus was relieved to see Augustus back to himself at the next Death Eaters meeting. Since his return, Lord Voldemort had held at least one meeting per week. He never asked Severus if he was ready to take the Mark. Severus was certain it was a test and knew he was walking a thin line. Almost two months had passed since his first meeting and the awe at his achievements was fading. He was having trouble finding his place in the group when all had their tasks. He had nothing special to offer, neither in terms of power nor strategy—nothing they would accept. He had refused to partake in the ambushes against the group's adversaries—terrorizing and humiliating people for fun when you outnumbered and outpowered them reminded him too much of the Marauders—and as such he was not invited to the training sessions taking place twice a week at either Nott or Beltram manor. There were far enough volunteers eager to show off for him not to be missed, but some—Bellatrix truly could not stand him—were beginning to whisper Severus was not loyal or too cowardly. He was relieved neither Jonathan nor Evan were among them, but he knew he needed to find something useful to do for the group. Brewing a few pain potions or Skele-Grow here and then was not enough.
In fact, Severus needed his end of Apprenticeship potion, which he had called Lupacem, to be patented soon. It would be a huge advantage for the cause and for himself.
In addition to his decreasing rank in the group, Severus had made a fool of himself at the first party Evan and Jonathan had dragged him to. The girls who came to speak with him were so stupid and giggling he had barely managed not to underline every stupidity coming out of their mouths. Jonathan and Evan had found it hilarious, their mothers' and brothers' not so much. It was not like he needed to add a girlfriend to his Horcruxes problem. Girls were far too much complication for him right now.
Lily had asked him to meet so she could witness by herself how much he had grown as well as to introduce her son to him. Severus was reluctant to agree, because he was still unsure their friendship could rekindle, especially now she lived with Potter, but more importantly because he did not want to give his detractors more ammunition against him. He had not told anyone of his tentative truce with Lily—thanks Merlin she and the Marauders had for once had the sense not to advertise their fragile reconciliation, surely because Potter was persuaded Severus wanted to either use Lily as a source of information or worse to seduce her away—and he did not think he could afford to. As part of her training, Lily had assisted prosecutors on several cases against Death Eaters who had been caught in the act—and how their Mark had not yet been discovered was a mystery Severus needed to study—while Potter and Potter-bis had been assigned to famous Auror Alastor Moody who used them as hunt dogs to find the next Death Eater ambush. Severus had no doubt now was not the time to reveal he might be friends with Lady Potter.

Thanks Merlin no one knew of his correspondence with Petunia or the protection stone he had given her, thought Severus to himself as he observed the other Death Eaters. Lord Voldemort had arrived angry because the last opinion poll showed that his previous ascent was stabilizing, leaving him four points behind current Minister Birkins. Tempers were high, the Death Eaters snapping at each other as they cut down each others' proposals viciously. Severus could not wait for the meeting to end.

"We should move against Birkins personally!" argued Edward Beltram, one of Lord Selwyn's nephews. "He's incompetent, biased, and cheated at the previous election. The Death Eaters have every reason to pay him a visit."

"It's too obvious," objected Jonathan. "Plus acting against the Minister himself will give us bad press."

"I don't agree," intervened Mulciber. "We've based our actions against those who spread calumnies about us and our Lord, and against those who act against Slytherin's rules. Minister Birkins is a logical target. It will show our determination."

Severus watched as many around him nodded at Mulciber's arguments. Jonathan seemed to deflate as no one supported him to challenge this foolish course of action.

"I think we must be careful," said Severus, finally speaking before they put the decision to vote. "We all know Birkins is weak and leans heavily on Dumbledore. He's seeking his third mandate. If we put too much pressure on him, Dumbledore will be only too happy to seize the occasion to convince Birkins he should find a more peaceful hobby and put in his place someone stronger and in complete agreement with his view. Birkins is not that popular, a charismatic replacement could bring undecided voters on their side."

"What would you propose then?" asked Bellatrix acidly.

"Find Birkins' weak-spots. We have not yet focused on him," replied Severus, saying the first sensible idea which came to him.

"As if it would be enough," sneered Beltram. "You cannot truly believe it could work, look how Dumbledore is already back into everyone's good graces despite the Werewolf affair. Only a coward afraid to take real actions would propose this. Lord Malfoy must be turning in his grave."

Silence fell on the room. Severus felt his blood beat in his ears, mind working furiously. He could not let the insult unanswered. He could not overreact. He spied Bellatrix's satisfied smirk. A setup then. He remembered Lucius' wedding when Lord Voldemort had told him he needed Severus as a counter-power in the group. It was truer than ever even if the Lord did not realise it.
He let his Sense roam over Beltram, careful to keep his touch as feathery and unremarkable as possible, unsurprised when he did not encounter any Shield. From what he had observed since coming back, few Wizards possessed Sensing Shields.
To be fair, few Goblins did too.
Severus let a cold smile form on his lips. He would enjoy cutting this idiot down. Metaphorically of course.
He stood up slowly, gaze focused on Beltram but careful not to project his magic.

"You are saying I am a coward," stated Severus calmly but coldly. "When you require at least three comrades to ambush one Muggle or Mudblood."

He let the sentence hang in the air for a few seconds, enjoying the sudden rigidity in Beltram's stance. The others were letting this play out. Perfect.

"Would you duel me right now?" Severus asked, as if talking about the weather.

"I am Defence Master grade I," scoffed Beltram. "How—"

"Am I supposed to be impressed?" interrupted Severus, lifting his eyebrow at him.

"Your funeral," answered Beltram darkly. "What are the rules my Lord?" he asked, turning to Lord Voldemort.

The Lord took his time to look at them both intently then smiled with anticipation.
"First blood. Gentlemen, do not maim each other please."

"At your command my Lord," answered Beltram ferociously.

"As you desire my Lord," answered Severus, Sensing Shields on alert and Magic at ready.

Beltram did not waste time, firing a wordless spell Severus easily put into the ground by taking control of its magic flow. He allowed the man to cast another, deflecting it the same way before using Levicorpus to lift him off the ground, adjusting it so it would hold him by the throat instead of his backside. Severus had barely moved. He seized control of the magic flows around Beltram to prevent him from casting another spell and waited as the Master Grade I tried and failed to cast another spell, breath coming short as the hold on his throat decreased his air supply.
Severus could not help thinking it should not be that easy, especially against a Defence Master Grade I, and waited for his opponent's retaliation. But Beltram had clearly no grasp of Sensing use in fight. His attempts to grab the magic flows were pitiful and weak, a clear sign he was not aware of what he was reaching for.

Diffindo.

Severus watched impassively as the severing spell cut Beltram's cheek superficially, only to let a drop of blood fall.
Severus waited another ten seconds before letting the other man down, putting him on the ground gently enough not to break any bones. Beltram slumped on the ground, gasping for air.
To think mere four years ago, Severus had been struggling with control and precision.

"Next time, I get to practice my screams," Sensed Dhaal, deep satisfaction bleeding from his side of the Bond.

"Maybe," Sensed back Severus, adrenaline high. It felt good to be powerful, adrenaline thrumming through his veins, satisfaction at beating his enemy filling his heart. It was dangerous too, to win so easily. You could easily forget you were not the best. Severus supposed it was the appeal of ambushing people when you outnumbered them five to one.

"Impressive mastery of Magic, Severus," praised Lord Voldemort, ignoring Beltram who was being helped away by Lord Goyle. "How did you not earn your grade I Defence Mastery?"

"My examination board was exigent," answered Severus mattered-of-fact.

"This trick of yours would not have worked with me," warned the Lord amused as his Sensing Shields brushed lightly against Severus'.

"I have no doubt on your Mastery of Magic my Lord," said Severus, bowing slightly.

He could not panic over the fact that Lord Voldemort knew Magic as well as he had suspected. He had to admire how the Lord had both conveyed his warning and confirmed to himself that Severus too had Sensing shields without showing suspicion of Severus.

The Lord laughed. Bellatrix glowered. Mulciber glared. The other Death Eaters relaxed.

"We will leave Birkins alone for now. But Edward, do inquire about his weaknesses," ordered Lord Voldemort.

Beltram agreed without protest. Severus went back to his seat and the discussion moved to the subjects the Lord needed to broach at his next conference. To Severus' relief, the meeting ended soon after without any other hitch.
As small groups formed in the aftermath, Severus caught Regulus' eye. They joined near the entrance.

"Eventful evening," said Regulus wryly.

"We do what we must," answered Severus. "Are you still interested in those exotic plants?"

As Severus had hoped, Regulus did not bat an eye at the unexpected question.
"Of course. I still don't understand how you can possess some that my House does not."

"Do you want to come now?"asked Severus.

"With pleasure," answered Regulus, a spark of interest in the eye.

"I'm interested too," intervened Jonathan, looking at Severus square in the eyes.

They locked eyes, each gauging the other. Could he take the risk? He wanted to. He glanced at Regulus who nodded imperceptibly. Severus smiled.

"You're always welcome Jonathan."